As the Navajo Nation moves forward with plans for its first casino, tribal lawmakers are considering how best to turn a profit.

On a reservation where the sale and consumption of alcohol is prohibited, lawmakers are set to vote on a measure during their winter session that would make the casino dining area an exception.

“That will be real controversial,” said Delegate LoRenzo Bates. “You’re going to have all the opponents there. There will be a lot of discussion on ‘if you do this, then you’re contributing to a disease that exists on Navajo.’ Then the other folks on the other side saying it will bring business".